Despite the fact that the season 3 finale of Downton Abbey aired here in the US last night (and months ago in the UK), I know there are some folks who have yet to watch the episode so I will keep all potential spoilery info behind the cut. If you’ve yet to see the final episode of Downton Abbey season 3, you might want to not read any further concerning casting rumors for season 4. If you’re caught up, you’re deff gonna wanna read what’s below.

Okay … first off … OMG, was season 3 crazy or what? Not only did we lose Lady Sybil a few episodes ago but last night, after the birth of his son, Matthew Crowley was killed in a tragic car accident. Yes folks, he is dead. Dan Stevens, the actor who plays Matthew, has left the show and well, he had to be killed off. But the show needs a new leading man to take his place … and reports are going around that actor Tom Ellis might get the job:

Tom Ellis is reportedly being lined up to star in the next series of Downton Abbey. The Miranda actor auditioned for the role of Lady Mary’s new love ­interest and has since been shortlisted for the part by producers, the Sunday Mirror reports. An ITV source said: “Tom has always been popular but he has really become hot property since his role as Gary in Miranda. “He really showed his versatility and he’s also incredibly popular with the female viewers. It was an absolute no-brainer to get him in for an audition. We know that Tom’s got a lot of other options at the moment but if he does get the role it will be an incredible opportunity for him. A lot of the current cast have become global superstars. And it is always a bit of a coup for us to attract a ­major BBC star to a flagship ITV show like Downton ­Abbey.” Lady Mary, played by Michelle Dockery, lost husband Matthew (Dan ­Stevens) in a car crash during Downton Abbey’s [season 3 finale]. Her new romance will be a key plot in the next series.

I am SO glad I watched all of season 3 weeks ago because I would’ve been PISSED if the finale was spoiled for me. I was so shocked by Matthew‘s death … and by Sybil‘s, too. That damn show makes you care for these characters and then BAM! they’re dead. It’s like The Walking Dead, no one is safe or immortal. I don’t know a thing about Tom Ellis but I love these photos from his recent Attitude magazine photospread. I like what I see so I don’t think I’d mind one bit of he joins the cast of Downtown Abbey. I think the gay footman/valet/butler Thomas will welcome his arrival as well, don’t you?

WHAAA?!?!?! damn I knew I shouldnt have read this season 3 is up to the 3rd episode in Australia I already knew Matthew was not returning next season so I knew he was going to die or something but Sybil aswell nooo I loved her I didnt know she was going I am so upset now :(

I could actually handle Matthew’s death because I knew it was going to happen once we knew the actor was leaving but Sybil’s death left me inconsolable! I was hysterical. I sobbed. I screamed at the TV. I cursed Julian Fellowes. I think my family were genuinely worried about my sanity :P It’s like Game of Thrones, you shouldn’t get attached to any character but you just can’t help it!

now this is interesting. at last a real hunk for Lady Mary and he better be titled and not a greengrocer. what drama will the little flapper cousin bring. will she go after Branson?
Ah well good luck to Dan Stevens who left to become a star. Trevor Bannister left Are you Being Served to go on the road with a local drama group. Same with David Caruso and Farrah who left hit shows after one season. I can sugg. 2 other series you might enjoy. “From Larkrise to Candleford” and” Cranford” and” Return to Cranford”.

Just finished today but already knew they would kill him off cuz the actor said he was leaving – and his character was in no position to be written off and just leave town. Totally sucks, but not really that shocking.

Sybil on the other hand… balled like a baby when she died! Can’t wait for season 4!!